Firecracker Bush
bouvardia ternifolia
Also known as: ["Hummingbird Bush","Scarlet Bouvardia"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Mexico, known for its vibrant red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Bouvardia |
| Botanical Name: | Bouvardia ternifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain moderate temperatures; protect from extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize lightly and frequently; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant to encourage bushiness; remove dead or overgrown stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures; chlorosis in overly warm conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions if they ingest Bouvardia ternifolia. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Bouvardia ternifolia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and potential allergic reactions. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBouvardia ternifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Bouvardia ternifolia attract hummingbirds?
A: Yes, its vibrant red tubular flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Q: Is Bouvardia ternifolia drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Q: What are the common problems with Bouvardia ternifolia?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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